Ricotta Roasted Tomato Toasties

Golden toast with creamy ricotta and oven-roasted tomatoes is the snack that made me fall in love with Mediterranean flavors. This recipe is all about bringing sunshine and freshness to your table whether you want a sharable appetizer or a satisfying lunch in minutes.

The first time I served these toasties at a family brunch the entire platter vanished before the coffee finished brewing. Now everyone asks me to make double batches for gatherings and quick lunch dates.

Ingredients

• Rustic sourdough or country bread: Four slices with a hearty crumb hold up best and toast to a golden crisp easily
• Ricotta cheese: Creamy base that soaks up flavors Look for whole milk ricotta for the richest texture
• Extra virgin olive oil: Choose one you love to drizzle as both flavor and finishing touch
• Lemon zest: Brightens the ricotta with fresh fragrance Pick a firm lemon and zest only the yellow skin for best results
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper: These essentials balance creaminess and highlight every ingredient
• Cherry tomatoes: Choose ripe and sweet for juicy roasted results Even small grape tomatoes work in a pinch
• Balsamic vinegar: Adds sweet tang and umami Stick with aged balsamic for deeper richer flavor
• Dried oregano or thyme: Earthy herbs that pair naturally with tomatoes Check freshness for maximum aroma
• Fresh basil leaves: Torn and scattered for peppery bite Best used at the end for lift
• Flaky sea salt: Adds crunch and enhances every bite Look for moist flakes to finish
• Optional drizzle of olive oil as garnish: A graceful touch if you want extra sheen and richness

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:

Arrange your rack in the middle position and heat it to four hundred degrees Fahrenheit or two hundred degrees Celsius Line a baking tray with parchment so tomatoes do not stick and clean up is easy

Prepare the Tomatoes:

Cut the cherry tomatoes lengthwise and place them on the tray Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic then sprinkle with dried herbs salt and pepper Gently toss with your hands and turn each half cut side up so juices caramelize

Roast Tomatoes to Perfection:

Bake for twenty to twenty five minutes Watch for wrinkled skins and golden edges Let the tomatoes become soft and slightly sticky for the best roasted flavor

Mix the Ricotta Spread:

In a small bowl combine ricotta olive oil lemon zest a pinch of salt and cracked black pepper Stir with a spoon until very smooth and fluffy

Toast the Bread:

While tomatoes roast pop the bread slices into a toaster or under the grill Toast until golden and crunchy on both sides For added aroma try rubbing each with a cut garlic clove while still warm

Assemble the Toasties:

While bread is hot spread a thick even layer of ricotta on each slice Spoon roasted tomatoes on top letting the juices sink into the ricotta

Garnish and Finish:

Scatter torn basil leaves over each toast Sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt and finish with a gentle swirl of olive oil if you wish

Serve Immediately:

Enjoy the toasties right away while the bread is still crisp and the tomatoes are cozy and warm

Save

Basil is the ingredient that ties this all together in my kitchen The fragrance always reminds me of my grandmother’s windowsill garden and how she would hand tear leaves over everything from salads to pasta Bringing little rituals like that into simple dishes makes everyday meals memorable

Storage Tips

Best enjoyed fresh but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to twenty four hours For the crispiest texture store bread and toppings separately and assemble just before serving Gently rewarm tomatoes before adding

Ingredient Substitutions

No ricotta Try whipped feta or creamy cottage cheese Dairy free versions work as well Swap in goat cheese for a tangier bite If you do not have sourdough use any country style loaf or a gluten free version for allergies Fresh thyme or baby arugula add variety to the topping

Serving Suggestions

Serve as party bites lunch with a green salad or a dinner starter For a brunch board slice the toasts into fingers and pile onto a big platter I love serving these alongside marinated olives or crisp cucumber ribbons for a refreshing spread

A Touch of Mediterranean Tradition

Open faced toasts like these are a staple across the Mediterranean with every family giving it their unique twist Roasted tomatoes capture the region’s love of vibrant seasonal produce Layering them on bread with cheese makes this dish feel both comforting and elegant

Seasonal Adaptations

Swap cherry tomatoes for heirloom slices in summer Use roasted squash or sautéed mushrooms when tomatoes are not in season Try a hint of chili flakes to add warmth in colder weather

Save

I always keep extra roasted tomatoes on hand because they work on pasta or tossed through salads These toasties are the definition of fuss free flavor

Cooking Questions

→ What type of bread works best?

Rustic sourdough or country bread provides sturdy texture and flavor, ideal for holding toppings and staying crisp.

→ Can I use a dairy-free alternative?

Yes, substitute the ricotta with a plant-based version to make this suitable for dairy-free diets.

→ How do I enhance the flavor?

Try rubbing toasted bread with cut garlic or add a drizzle of honey for a sweet layer. Fresh herbs add aromatic depth.

→ Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?

Swap in your favorite gluten-free bread to enjoy these toasties without gluten concerns.

→ Can I prepare the toppings ahead?

Roasted tomatoes and ricotta mixture can be made ahead; assemble just before serving to keep toast crisp.

→ What herbs pair well?

Basil, oregano, thyme, or arugula work beautifully for garnish and add fresh flavors to the toasties.